Considering a Cruise to Antarctica? Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Book

Reaching the elusive seventh continent has never been easier, thanks to the booming expedition cruise industry. But what makes a trip to Antarctica so special? It’s not just a checklist item; it’s a chance to experience a part of the Earth that is entirely unique and wonderfully remote, reminding you of our planet's extraordinary beauty. And let’s not forget the penguins—there are plenty of them.

Planning a visit to Antarctica can seem daunting. With numerous cruise lines and expedition operators vying for attention, and a plethora of factors to consider, choosing your voyage can be quite a challenge. It's essential to select the right cruise for you, especially since this may be a once-in-a-lifetime journey. (Unless, like me, you find yourself drawn back again and again…) To assist you, we’ve created this ultimate guide to Antarctica cruises, covering everything you need to know before making your reservation.

Choosing the Perfect Antarctica Cruise

Not all Antarctica cruises are the same. While the breathtaking landscapes will impress you, it's crucial to pick a cruise that aligns with your travel style and interests. Here are some key factors to consider before making your reservation:

Vessel Size

Focusing on this detail is crucial when choosing an Antarctic cruise. The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) regulates ship operations based on passenger numbers, meaning your vessel's capacity directly influences your Antarctic experience. Select your ship thoughtfully, keeping IAATO guidelines in mind.

• Small vessels (up to 200 passengers): These ships can access all landing locations.
• Medium vessels (201 to 500 passengers): These ships have access to select landing spots designed for larger groups.
• Large vessels (over 500 passengers): Ships exceeding 500 passengers are prohibited from making landings, limiting you to scenic cruising without stepping foot on the continent.

Level of Luxury

Antarctic-bound ships vary from basic former research vessels to ultra-luxurious, specially designed ships. Typically, cruises on higher-end vessels come at a premium. Consider what matters most during your cruise — do you desire butler service and a spa, or would you rather save money on an older ship with fewer luxuries?

Cruise Lines and Expedition Companies

I’ve ventured to Antarctica five times, each trip with a different operator, and I would gladly return again and again. Here’s what you can anticipate from the operators I've experienced.

Lindblad Expeditions

Since 1966, Lindblad has been leading guests to Antarctica and remains a top operator in the area. Their fleet, which includes the luxurious National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution, accommodates a maximum of 148 guests, providing an intimate experience with ample time to explore ashore. Education is a fundamental aspect of their offerings, with an outstanding expedition team and engaging lectures.

Scenic

The Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II are ultra-luxurious vessels that resemble sleek yachts rather than typical expedition ships, both in their exterior and interior designs. These standout ships offer unique features like helicopters and submersibles, an array of nearly a dozen dining options, and a tranquil spa. With all these luxuries, they accommodate only 200 passengers in Antarctica, enabling access to exclusive small-ship landing sites.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

A fresh entrant in the cruise industry, Atlas Ocean Voyages launched in 2021, boasting a fleet of newly designed expedition ships, each with its unique aesthetic. For example, the World Traveller, which I sailed on, embodies the essence of "la dolce vita" with its vintage nautical decor. Atlas Ocean Voyages strikes a balance between expedition cruising and classic cruising — the approximately 200-passenger ships are undeniably expedition vessels, yet they incorporate traditional cruise elements like evening musical performances.

Viking

Viking operates two expedition vessels, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, each accommodating up to 378 passengers, categorizing them as medium-sized ships. This size typically limits landings to one site per day, fostering a more relaxed Antarctic experience — ample time to indulge in the exceptional spa (my personal favorite is the open-air badestamp, a wooden hot tub) alongside engaging science demonstrations. There’s also plenty of adventure beyond the ship, as they offer an array of exciting equipment, particularly submersibles.

Aurora Expeditions

Adventure is the essence of Aurora Expeditions. This Australian operator caters to thrill-seekers eager for action. My landings with Aurora were notably more dynamic than with other lines — for instance, I trekked over five miles on Deception Island, ascending hills to reach breathtaking viewpoints. Additionally, for an extra fee, you can opt to join one of several activity groups: during my trip, snorkeling and paddling were available, while skiing is an option earlier in the season. Although Aurora's ships lean toward a more functional design, they are true expedition powerhouses.

Other Cruise Lines and Operators in Antarctica to Consider

Naturally, numerous other operators sail in Antarctic waters. Quark Expeditions, Abercrombie & Kent, Natural Habitat Adventures (NatHab), Silversea, Seabourn, HX (Hurtigruten), Ponant, Adventures by Disney, Albatros Expeditions, Princess Cruises, Antarctica21, Oceanwide Expeditions, and Swan Hellenic all merit your consideration.

After selecting your cruise operator, what's the next step? It’s time to refine your itinerary options and book your flight.

Best Time to Visit Antarctica

The Antarctic cruise season takes place during the austral summer, spanning from November to March. "During this period, there’s really no wrong time to visit," shares Trey Byus, Lindblad Expeditions' chief expedition officer. "Summer temperatures typically range from a brisk 32° F to a pleasant 65° F. While certain conditions and wildlife sightings happen in specific months, there’s engaging and thrilling activity throughout the entire season." Here’s what you can anticipate during different times of the season.

November–early December: Witness Antarctica in its most untouched state, with a thick layer of snow covering much of the terrain. "Guests on early-season expeditions are likely to see penguins preparing their nests and seal pups still nursing from their mothers," explains Byus. "In the early season, when ice conditions are optimal, our captain can often 'park' the ship amidst the sea ice, allowing our expedition team to guide walks among the penguins... Early November departures also provide the chance for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing on the frozen sea ice, conditions permitting."

Late December–January: This marks the peak season in Antarctica, especially for spotting penguins. Penguin chicks begin hatching in late December, and by mid-January, they will be running about. "You will also enjoy nearly 24 hours of daylight," states Aaron Lawton, Viking's head of expedition operations.

February-March: As the season progresses, snow cover may diminish, but whale sightings increase. "As the region shifts from summer to autumn, March becomes a perfect time for those keen on stunning photography with softer light, reducing harsh shadows due to the sun's angle," remarks Colby Brokvist, an expedition leader for Natural Habitat Adventures and a certified senior polar guide with the Polar Tourism Guides Association, as well as author of "The Professional Guide's Handbook."

“I have had the honor of visiting Antarctica over 100 times in the past 25 years, and I can assure you that every trip is distinct and remarkable — regardless of the season you choose to go," adds Lawton.

Selecting an Itinerary

While some adventurers opt for a trip solely to Antarctica, numerous cruise lines provide extended itineraries that encompass the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and South Georgia. Both locales are teeming with wildlife — notably, South Georgia boasts enormous colonies of king penguins — alongside rich human history. If you can manage the time, typically at least three weeks, consider visiting all three destinations!

How to Reach Your Destination

Most Antarctic cruises navigate the Antarctic Peninsula, departing from Ushuaia, Argentina; Punta Arenas, Chile; or Puerto Williams, Chile. While some operators require you to book flights to these locations, the majority will arrange for you to fly to either Buenos Aires or Santiago for an overnight stay before taking a chartered flight to your embarkation point.

Traditional cruises require you to navigate the notorious Drake Passage, but you also have the option of a fly-fly cruise or a fly-sail cruise, allowing you to bypass the Drake (in one or both directions) by flying from Punta Arenas to King George Island. While these flights can save valuable time, be aware of potential delays — on my fly-fly cruise, our flight was postponed for three days due to adverse conditions. Had it been delayed any longer, our cruise would have been canceled. Always read the fine print when booking a cruise that includes flights to or from Antarctica.

There are also several Antarctica cruises that depart from New Zealand, exploring the Ross Sea region of Antarctica.

Essential Packing List

Everyone seems to wonder two things about traveling to Antarctica: what should I bring, and will I experience seasickness? Your expedition company or cruise line will supply you with a packing list — and Dinogo has crafted its own Antarctica packing list — but some essentials you won't want to forget include base layers, mid layers (like fleece jackets), waterproof outer layers (including pants!), and knee-high waterproof boots, along with general cold-weather gear like warm hats and waterproof gloves. Many luxury operators provide you with a waterproof parka to keep, as well as loaner waterproof pants and boots. Don't forget a bathing suit for the polar plunge, if you’re feeling adventurous.

As for what to wear onboard, many expedition cruise lines embrace a casual atmosphere. "One of our top priorities on Antarctic voyages is comfort, as we strive for a relaxed vibe on every journey," explains Byus from Lindblad Expeditions. "We always suggest dressing for comfort, practicality, and the conditions in the area you're exploring." Other cruise operators may expect you to dress in resort casual attire for the evenings.

Health and Safety Considerations

Dealing with Seasickness

Crossing the Drake Passage can present either serene conditions (known as Drake Lake) or tumultuous ones (referred to as Drake Shake). "No amount of technology can prevent these seas from being rough, but there are strategies to ease the impact of the weather on your experience. There are certainly many crossings where the waters are relatively calm," says Byus. "Our team diligently analyzes weather forecasts to identify breaks in storms and uses stabilizers to reduce side-to-side rocking. However, everyone reacts to motion differently," he adds.

It’s quite possible to feel seasick on the Drake — or even in the open waters around Antarctica. "Seasickness can occur, so we advise techniques such as gazing at the horizon, staying hydrated, and opting for a cabin located centrally for better stability," suggests Brokvist. "For some travelers, extra precautions may include over-the-counter meds, wristbands, or prescriptions." Ships are also equipped with an onboard doctor who can provide seasickness medication if you've forgotten yours or if you run out during your journey.

Mobility

Traveling to Antarctica is quite different from cruising the Mediterranean or the Caribbean — there are no convenient piers or sheltered tenders to keep you out of the elements. You'll need to board robust inflatable boats known as Zodiacs to reach the shore, and getting in and out of them requires a fair amount of mobility (though expedition staff will be available to assist you). Once ashore, the landscape can be challenging, with uneven terrain, wobbly rocks, deep snow, and slippery penguin guano. "Caution is crucial due to the remoteness of the area and limited medical facilities," warns Brokvist.

If mobility is a concern for you, staying on the ship is always an option. Alternatively, Viking offers a "Special Operations Boat" for departures, which may be easier for some travelers to board. "Guests with limited mobility can enjoy spectacular views of the White Continent from one of Viking’s two Special Operation Boats, equipped with comfortable seating for optimal viewing," explains Lawton. Keep in mind, however, that these boats do not make landings like the Zodiacs do.

Life on an Antarctic Cruise

While you may know what to anticipate on a standard ocean cruise, an expedition cruise presents an entirely different adventure.

Accommodations

Accommodations vary significantly based on the ship's luxury level. On older expedition vessels, you might find yourself in twin beds (or even bunks) with a small porthole serving as a window. In contrast, newer luxury ships may offer full suites complete with soaking tubs, balconies, and butler service. If you're traveling solo, check your operator's policy: some ships provide dedicated cabins for solo travelers, while others will pair you with a roommate. While having your own cabin might sound appealing, opting for a roommate can be a cost-effective choice, as many operators impose a single supplement on solo bookings.

Dining

Smaller expedition vessels typically feature just one or two restaurants onboard, with special dining events such as on-deck barbecues or chef's tables on select nights. However, some ships boast multiple dining options to accommodate various tastes, offering a range of cuisines. As for drinks, what's included in your cruise fare can vary by operator — some are all-inclusive, while others operate on an à la carte basis.

Entertainment

Entertainment options differ among operators and ships, but a standard program usually features lectures about Antarctica from the expedition staff, who are specialists in diverse fields such as glaciology, marine biology, and history. Some vessels may also offer interactive science experiments, while others might host musical performances in the evenings.

Discovering Antarctica

Your adventure in Antarctica will depend on whether you’ve selected an expedition cruise with landings or a scenic cruise. Regardless, each day promises new experiences. Although expedition leaders and captains generally outline the itinerary, daily activities will adapt to weather and ice conditions.

Expedition Cruises

On smaller ships carrying 200 passengers or fewer, your day typically begins early with both morning and afternoon excursions. Conversely, larger vessels may allow you to disembark only once per day. This is due to IAATO regulations, which permit only 100 guests per ship to go ashore at any given time — on larger ships, you may need to wait your turn.

Excursions typically feature one of two activities: a landing or a Zodiac cruise. Landings occur at designated sites throughout Antarctica, often involving short walks, wildlife watching (including sightings of penguins, seabirds, and, if you're fortunate, seals), and visits to historic sites like a hut at Damoy Point, which served as a makeshift "airport terminal" in the 1970s. Another favored landing spot is Port Lockroy, a UK Antarctic Heritage Trust site with a museum and a functioning post office.

Certain operators provide a range of additional excursions—some complimentary, others at an extra cost—such as kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, skiing, camping, helicopter tours, and submersible dives, depending on the operator's resources and the ship's capabilities.

Scenic Cruises

If you're aboard a larger ship focused solely on scenic cruising, your days will consist of lectures, wildlife observation, and breathtaking views. "On an Antarctic expedition with Holland America Line, travelers not only navigate the Drake Passage but also explore the bays and islands of the Palmer Archipelago," explains Ryan Baird, manager of destination communications at Holland America Line. "Naturalists on board will highlight various wildlife sightings, such as terns, petrels, and gulls along the coast and smaller islands like Dallmann Bay; the largest gentoo penguin colony in the world near the dramatic, rocky Cuverville Island; and leopard and elephant seals near expansive glaciers." Additionally, there will be other Antarctica-themed activities. "In addition to onboard educational experiences, we’ll incorporate fun and games, including snowball fights, Antarctica-themed films, and trivia contests," adds Baird.

Environmental Considerations

Antarctica's delicate ecosystem warrants concern for your environmental footprint as a visitor. To mitigate their impact, guests are required to follow stringent biosecurity measures, which include using biocides to disinfect their boots and refraining from bringing food and drinks ashore.

"When traveling, I always embrace our mission — to leave a place better than we found it, whether it's a hotel, a friend's home, or an entire continent," shares Byus. "We encourage guests to be mindful visitors while enjoying the thrill of adventure and exploration. Equally important, our captains and expedition leaders are extensively trained to conduct our journeys with the utmost regard for sustainability and the ecosystems we encounter," he adds.

Ships are evolving for the better. "Since my first trips to Antarctica over twenty years ago, the industry has made remarkable strides in enhancing the environmental design of expedition vessels," notes Lawton. Modern ships employ dynamic positioning instead of anchors to minimize seafloor disturbance; they utilize advanced treatment systems to prevent the introduction of foreign biological organisms; and they are equipped with quieter technologies to diminish noise pollution.

Moreover, Antarctic cruises create opportunities for scientific research in the region — many operators invite researchers from across the globe to join their voyages, often at no cost. "When visiting remote locations, it's crucial that we not only avoid causing harm but also contribute positively through scientific study," states Lawton. For example, Viking collaborates with the Scott Polar Research Institute at Cambridge University, The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, and NOAA, among other nonprofit organizations. On my journey with Lindblad, we welcomed esteemed "penguinologist" Dr. Tom Hart, who mentioned that "hitchhiking" on expedition ships is a much more economical way for him to reach his penguin colony study sites than chartering his own boat.

Essential Antarctica Tips Before You Depart

Adapt to the environment.

"Being flexible is essential for first-time travelers to experience the wonder of Antarctica. Weather can change abruptly, affecting plans, and unexpected wildlife sightings may divert your itinerary," explains Brokvist. "Embrace the unpredictable essence of the White Continent, remain adaptable, and enjoy the distinct adventure each moment offers."

Appreciate the Drake.

While I’m lucky that seasickness rarely bothers me, I truly relished my time crossing the Drake Passage — it was my gateway into birdwatching, as there’s little else to catch your eye! "From my experience, the waters can range from calm to choppy, but regardless of the conditions, traversing the Drake Passage is a significant part of the journey and a memorable experience," states Lawton. I also feel that crossing the Drake heightens anticipation on the way in and allows for relaxation on the return trip.

Understand Your Boundaries.

Traveling to Antarctica can be quite demanding. While it's tempting to join every activity, it's important to pay attention to your body. If you feel the need to rest, it's perfectly fine to skip a landing or Zodiac cruise — you want to avoid accidents from overexertion.